December Local Elections: Your Voice Matters
Local elections of The Ethiopian World Federation take place in December. Learn about officer positions, duties and how to prepare and take part.
A strong Local grows through the people who show up, contribute, and take responsibility for its work. December brings an opportunity to help choose those who will guide that work in the year ahead.
Across The Ethiopian World Federation, Incorporated, Local elections invite members to reflect on what they have accomplished together—and what they want to build next.
December Elections, January Installation
Under Article IV, Sections 3–5, Locals hold their elections during the first two weeks of December. Officers serve one-year terms, with installation at the first regular meeting in January following the election.
For this year’s cycle, that means elections in December 2026 and installation in January 2027. Contact your Local for its exact meeting date and election arrangements.
Choosing a Team to Serve
Article VI, Sections 2–3, establishes eight Local officer positions:
President
First Vice-President
Second Vice-President
Treasurer
Financial Secretary
Recording-Corresponding Secretary
Chaplain
Sergeant-at-Arms
Together with three additional members elected by the Local, these officers form the Local Executive Committee. The Constitution also affirms equal eligibility for men and women to hold office under Article I, Section 6.
When considering candidates, look at the everyday qualities that help a Local function well. Who listens carefully? Who follows through? Who can give the role the time it requires and work respectfully with others?
Experience matters. So do reliability, honesty, and a willingness to learn.
Before You Stand for Office
Taking office is a commitment to practical work. Article VI, Section 4, assigns responsibilities covering meetings, finances, records, correspondence, spiritual support, and meeting order.
If you are considering a position, take time to read its duties and speak with the person currently serving. Ask what the work involves, what needs attention, and how you could contribute.
You do not need to arrive with every answer. You do need a realistic understanding of the responsibility you are willing to accept.
Prepare, Participate, and Stay Involved
Before the election, ask your Local to confirm the meeting details, nomination process, and eligibility requirements. Check your membership and dues status early so that any questions can be resolved before the meeting.
Use the weeks ahead to discuss priorities constructively. What has worked well this year? Where do members need more support? Which activities could the Local realistically deliver together?
Once elections are complete, a thoughtful handover can help the incoming team begin with confidence. Outgoing officers share records, explain ongoing projects, and make time for questions.
And for every member, participation continues beyond election day. An elected team needs an involved membership. Attending meetings, joining a committee, and offering your skills all help turn shared decisions into action.
Contact your Local today to confirm its December election date. Read the duties, consider how you can serve, and make time to participate. New to the Federation? Read What Is a Local? and How to Become a Member.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Locals hold their elections? — During the first two weeks of December (Article IV, Sections 3–5). The new officers are installed at the first regular meeting in January.
How long do officers serve? — Officers serve one-year terms.
Who can hold office? — The Constitution affirms equal eligibility for men and women to hold office (Article I, Section 6). Ask your Local about its nomination process and eligibility requirements.
Constitutional Reference
The Ethiopian World Federation, Incorporated — Constitution and By-Laws, Articles I, IV, and VI. Undated digital edition; the 1937 date on its cover identifies incorporation, not the edition year. Members can request a copy of the Constitution.